Visakha Bucha or Buddha Purnima is a National Holiday and the most sacred day in the Buddhist Calendar and celebrated in several countries around the world.

In Thailand Buddhists believe every full moon is a sacred occasion, however the full moon that falls in the month of Vaisakh has special significance because it is believed this is the day Buddha was born, attained enlightenment and attained parinirvana when he died.

Many Buddhists will also observe Buddha’s historical birth 8th April 1092 BC, though this exact date is questionable. Modern archaeological and historical research confirms that Prince Siddartha Gotama (Shakyamuni Buddha), the historical founder of Buddhism lived around this time.

The exact date of Visakha Bucha Day is the first full moon in the fourth month in the Chinese lunar calendar. The date varies from year to year in the Gregorian calendar, but is typically in May.

Visakha Bucha Day in Thailand

In Thailand, Buddha’s birthday is a holy day, so shops, bars and restaurants are barred from selling alcohol for 24 hours from midnight until midnight.

All Government offices and many businesses will be closed. Schools and colleges may hang out yellow Buddhist flags to mark the day.